DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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This holiday, give the gift of health to Mississippi’s children.
If you believe Mississippi’s kids deserve a healthier future, join us and support Children’s of Mississippi, part of the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The care they give every young patient changes lives. Together, we can build a legacy of health and happiness for our children. This season, please give generously.
Give today at
manningsforhealth.org © University of Mississippi Medical Center 2014. All rights reserved.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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IN THIS ISSUE
DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015
DECEMBER 2014 / JANUARY 2015
FEATURES 32 Answering the Call Area firefighters demonstrate the holiday spirit year-round by going above and beyond the call of duty to keep their communities safe.
COVER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE WORTHEM
ABOUT THE COVER The cover features a pecan pie made by Sugaree’s Bakery. The pies are sold year-round at sugarees.com or in its store in downtown New Albany, Miss. Sugaree’s uses pecans from Indianola, Miss., in the filling. Read more about pecans and find other pecan pie recipes on page 44.
40 Tupelo Spirit Shines Thanks to tornado recovery volunteers, Carol Cummings is grateful to be spending the holidays in her newly rebuilt home.
58 80 Years of Elvis To commemorate Elvis Presley’s 80th birthday this January, community organizations are collaborating on a three-day-long celebration.
61 Rising Stars Invitation Tupelo caught up with bluegrass band Breaking Grass, actress Allie Grant and singer Priscilla Barker.
84 Coffee for a Cause No ordinary coffee shop, Thomas Street Coffee Co. sells freshly roasted coffee grounds to benefit underserved communities.
EVENTS
44 In Season: Pecans
Along with the holiday season comes pecan season. Pecan farmers harvest the nuts from their orchards throughout December, and businesses like family-owned Duke Pecan Co. sell them to people who give them as gifts, snack on them whole and, of course, bake pecan pies.
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
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Holiday Tree Festival American Legacy Tour Discover the Dinosaurs New Albany Open House Ole Miss Ice Hockey Saltillo Paint Party Taste of Tupelo Tupelo Arts Showcase Downtown Open House Vegas Night Latin American Music Night Red Green Market Dave Clark Golf Tournament Cooking Like the Stars
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70 DEPARTMENTS 10 14 42 76 88
Letter From the Publisher What’s Happening Pets of the Month Out and About Tupelo Spirit: Donna Pritchard
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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the publisher
LETTER FROM
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PHOTOGRAPH COURTSEY OF SHOWTIME
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t’s holiday time, and often during this season I find myself wondering what I’ve done for others this year. For sisters Stacie Graham and Tiffany Parker (1), thinking about others is part of who they are, no matter the season. Graham and Parker are not only sisters but they are also both volunteer firefighters, and they are dedicated year-round to helping people and saving lives. I was inspired by them and the other firefighters profiled in our story on page 32. In this issue we also celebrate the 80th birthday of Elvis Presley and how his legacy continues to inspire creative musicians like Cody Farrar, of bluegrass band Breaking Grass, and television actress and Tupelo native Allie Grant (2). Grant shares her story and her plans for the future on page 64 in an exclusive one-on-one chat with Invitation Tupelo. Grant’s Hollywood career began at age 10, but she still calls Mississippi home and keeps in close touch with her family in Tupelo. We also met a couple of local guys from Thomas Street Coffee Co. who are roasting coffee (3) and selling the flavorful grounds to benefit farmers and communities around the world. Learn more about them on page 84. Finally, we visited with Carol Cummings who is grateful this holiday season to be spending Christmas at home thanks to the effort and generosity of volunteers from Eight Days of Hope. She shares her heartwarming story on page 40. Like many of you, our staff will take time for family and friends during this joyous season. Look for the next issue of Invitation Tupelo Feb. 15. In the meantime, we wish you a very merry Christmas and happy New Year.
RACHEL M. WEST, PUBLISHER
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
PUBLISHER Rachel Malone West EDITOR Phil West DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Cindy Semmes MANAGING EDITOR Emily Welly ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lena Anderson ART DIRECTOR Hallie M. Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Lisa Roberts, Joe Worthem STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson, Sheena Hagemann, Leigh Lowery, Lynn McElreath, Mary Moreton, Moni Simpson AD DESIGN Becca Bailey, Paul Gandy, Zach Fields, Courtney Sims CONTRIBUTORS Chasity Dees, Emily Suber, Sonia Thompson OFFICE MANAGER Hollie Hilliard COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson
Give a Holiday Glow
DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney ADVERTISING INFORMATION (662) 701-8070 ads@invitationtupelo.com MAIN OFFICE (662) 234-4008 To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation Tupelo, send payment of $50 to: P.O. Box 3192, Tupelo, MS 38802 or visit invitationtupelo.com to pay online. To request a photographer at your event, to obtain an event photo or to purchase an announcement, email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.
Call to schedule your customized treatment
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
662-205-4652 Anne Haire D.O. Elite Asethetics July 1/3 island .indd 2
12/3/14 11:44 AM December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO 11
Valentine Specials
2015
Red Hot Special -One Hour Hot Stone Massage, European Facial, Manhattan Spa Pedicure & Manicure, Manhattan spa manicure, and Make-up application $278 All the single ladies -One hour massage, European facial, Manhattan spa pedicure, Manhattan spa manicure, and Make-up application $248
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Sweet heart massage -One hour
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders Institute, PLLC PLLC Jayant Dey, M.D., M.B.B.S. Nancy Hooks, C.N.P.
Dr. Dey & his staff would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!
910 Mary Vance Drive, Tupelo, Mississippi 38801 • Phone: 662.377.6275 • Fax: 662.377.6299 December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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what’s happening December 15-February 15 A sampling of important, fun and interesting events in our area. For more events, visit facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
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FAMILY FRIENDLY Now through Jan. 31 G.I. Joe: Celebrating 50 Years A nostalgic exhibit at Oren Dunn City Museum features hundreds of G.I. Joe action figures spanning the past 50 years. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. orendunnmuseum.org
December 30 Fun and Fit at Healthworks! Children and their grown-ups get fit while having fun doing art projects for all ages; learning about delicious, healthy snacks; and participating in exercises and relays. Admission $5 per person; free for members and children under 2. 10-11:30 a.m. Fun and Fit will also take place Jan. 13 and Feb. 10. healthworkskidsms.org
January 16 Kid’s Night at Healthworks! Children ages 4-12 get a fun night at Healthworks! Parents get a night off. Dinner is provided. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Register early for $15 per child; $10 per member child. 662-377-5437, healthworkskidsms.org.
January 27 Sixth-annual Make-A-Wish Celebrity Wait Night Be served by “celebrity” waiters from the community at Fairpark Grill. All tips and donations will benefit Make-A-Wish Mid-South, which grants the wishes of children battling life-threatening medical conditions in northeast Mississippi. 5:30-9 p.m. For reservations, call 662-680-3201.
February 7 Playtime with TCT Tupelo Community Theatre and HealthWorks! are partnering to provide child care during TCT’s Saturday night shows. Children ages 4-12 may be dropped off at HealthWorks! beginning at 5:30 p.m. and must be picked up no later than 20 minutes after the show. $30 per child; $15 per sibling. Dinner provided. Register in advance by calling 662-844-1935.
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
MUSIC, ART, THEATER, ELVIS AND MORE Now through December 20
January 24
Bradley Gordon Exhibit
Tom Kimmel Concert
Mississippi painter Bradley Gordon’s Mississippi wildlife and hunting scenes are exhibited at GumTree Museum of Art. Learn more about the artist at bradleysgordon.com.
Singer-songwriter Tom Kimmel performs at the Link Centre. 7:30 p.m. link-centre.org
Now through December 22 Guy Hovis Music Exhibit
January 31 Red Cross Evening of Jazz
Visit the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau, located at 399 E. Main St., to learn about country musician Guy Hovis, from the Lawrence Welk Show to today. MondayFriday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Northeast Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross hosts its eighth-annual Evening of Jazz. A night of music, food, dancing, a silent auction and more benefits the Red Cross. Tickets $30. 7-10 p.m., The Summit. For information, call 662-842-6101.
January 8-10
February 3-7
Elvis Presley 80th-Birthday Celebration
Father of the Bride
Several community organizations join the Tupelo CVB to mark Elvis’s 80th birthday with a celebration of music, theater, art and more. Events will be hosted by Tupelo Community Theatre, Elvis Presley Birthplace, the Link Centre, GumTree Museum of Art and North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. More information on page 58.
Tupelo Community Theatre stages Father of the Bride, a play based on the novel and movie. Feb. 5-7 at 7:30 p.m. and Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. Tickets $18; students $6. Call 662-844-1935. tct.ms
January 9
February 6 Junior Auxiliary Charity Ball
Eric Church Concert
Tupelo Junior Auxiliary presents the 51st-annual Charity Ball. 7 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena.
Country music singer-songwriter Eric Church performs as part of The Outsiders World Tour. Tickets $45-65. 7:30 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena. bcsarena.com
February 7–28
January 10-31 Motorcycles on Exhibit Tupelo Automobile Museum’s motorcycle exhibit features a variety of manufacturers and custom-built works of art. The museum is open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sunday noon-4:30 p.m. tupeloautomuseum.com
January 18 The Premier Bridal Show Wedding event vendors meet brides- and grooms-to-be. 1-4 p.m., BancorpSouth Conference Center. Admission $20. thepremierbridalshow.com
Hot Rods and Street Rods on Exhibit Custom hot rods and street rods are on display at Tupelo Automobile Museum. The museum is open MondaySaturday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sunday noon-4:30 p.m. tupeloautomuseum.com
February 9 Jason Coleman Concert Tupelo Concert Association presents pianist Jason Coleman. 7 p.m., Tupelo Civic Audtorium. For tickets, call 662-841-1083 or 662-840-7505. tupeloconcertassociation.com
WINTER AND HOLIDAY FUN Now through December 27 Ford Christmas
Tupelo Automobile Museum is decked out for the holidays with an exhibit of Ford brand vehicles. The museum is open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sunday noon-4:30 p.m. tupeloautomuseum.com
December 20 Natchez Trace Toy Box This holiday season, junior rangers are invited to learn about and try out historical toys such as Jacob’s ladders, buzz saws and tops. They may also make a toy to take home. 10-11 a.m., Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 266. nps.gov/natr
December 20-January 5 Public Ice Skating Ice skating is open to the public at BancorpSouth Arena. $10 per person including skate rental. 1-6 p.m. daily, except Dec. 24, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
December 21 Sounds of the Season Sounds of the Season concert features Calvin and Jauna Ellis and Mary Frances Massey and Friends. 3 p.m., Link Centre Concert Hall. Admission $10 adults, $5 students. link-centre.org
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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events Tupelo Women’s Club Holiday Tree Festival View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
Tupelo Women’s Club’s annual Holiday Tree Festival took place Nov. 20 at Tupelo Country Club and included a silent auction of fully decorated Christmas trees and other holiday decor. It benefited Tree of Life Clinic, Helping Hands Food Bank and SAFE, Inc.
Clay and Blair Finley with Hannah Claire and Wesley McCullough
Chelsea Wildmon, Sue Freeman and Gena Yarbrough
Virginia Metts, Beth Scott and Amy Trapp
Lana Arnold, Katherine Dendy, Allison Dudding and Lindsey Turner
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Leigh Monroe, Amanda Brown, Brooke Harden, Lacy Morse and Carrie Hancock
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Bonnie Campbell, Becky Kellum and Brenda Estes
Pam Stein, Teresa Cash, Kim Owen and Traci Watson
photographed by Lisa Roberts
Ashley and Mark Prince
86 S. Thomas St. 662.620.1120
3425 W. Main St. Opening May 2014
901 S. Gloster St. Opening Soon
Chris Dunn and Andi Parker
Melanie Moore, Anna Giachelli and Jessica Hollinger
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Chasity Dees
events American Legacy Tour View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The American Legacy Tour kicked off Nov. 6 in Tupelo at Elvis Presley Birthplace before visiting Birmingham, Ala., and Little Rock, Ark. Proceeds from the country music concerts benefited Jimmy Buffett’s Singing for Change and United Service Organizations (USO).
Laura Moore and Shannon Burks
Sue Alshargatli, Linda Steele, Judy Daniels and Cyndi Edwards
Scott Mathews, Travis Roaten and Kayla Daughtrey
Tara Nolan Priest, Renee Dulaney and Amber Hayes
Ph: 662.842.9493 312 Troy St., Tupelo, MS 38804 phippssalon.com
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Joe Armstrong and Chip Cooper
Jeff Roberson, Kalisa Ewing, Billy Roberson and Scott Black
AVEDA CONCEPT SALON & FINE ART GALLERY
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Peggy Buse and Cecelia Palmer
Chloe and Taylor Turner
101 W. Main St. | Baldwyn, MS
Mon - Fri: 10AM - 6PM Sat: 10AM - 4PM 662.365.5200
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Chasity Dees
events Discover the Dinosaurs View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
A traveling Discover the Dinosaurs exhibit visited Tupelo Furniture Market Nov. 15. In addition to animatronic dinosaurs displayed in prehistoric scenes, the event also included a dino dig, educational movies, dinosaur rides, inflatables, face painting and more.
Hank, Vonda, Holt and Matthew Winter
Avery and Daniel Hendon with Hunter and Robin Nanney and Grayson Hendon
Erica Heaton with Carson and Matt Gates
Saylor Dye, Hiram McKibben and Misty Dye
Mattie Holliday, Kyle Davis and ReneĂŠ Page
Logan Gray, Kathy Bondurant and Layla Gray
Lindsey Smith and Kaitlyn Reeves
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Zeke Roberson and Haley Palmer
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Lydia, Rilyn and Justin Best
Ashley Rodrigues and Audrey Worsham
Warm MERRY ~ AND ~
BRIGHT
Historic Downtown Tupelo 662.842.6453 Mall at Barnes Crossing 662.842.5287 Columbus 662.327.2684 Starkville 662.323.2684 reedsms.com December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Chasity Dees
events Downtown New Albany Holiday Open House View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
Christmas shopping started in New Albany, Miss., Nov. 9 with the Downtown New Albany Holiday Open House. Participating shops were open from 1-5 p.m., and shoppers were also invited to visit Magnolia Civic Center for refreshments, door prizes and free gifts.
Lori Cobb, Keri Stout and Rhonda Carter
Emma Denley and Sallie Pannell
Lauren Koon, Emily Browning and Madyson Lewellen
Jennifer Jolly and Misty Hogue
Carly Spencer, Mackenzie Armstrong and Natalie Bullard
Marina Fombellida and Tensley Taylor
Mya Cannon and Heather McMillen
Kallie Roberts and Brandi Ledford
Jan and Hannah Pannell
Allie Epting and Teresa Manning
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Ole Miss Ice Hockey View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
Ole Miss fans gathered to cheer on the Rebels ice hockey team at BancorpSouth Arena Nov. 14-16. During the weekend, they played Georgia Tech and Vanderbilt, and won all three games. Ole Miss plays in Tupelo again Jan. 15-18 against Mississippi State and LSU.
Daniel, Bob, Zac, Luke and Ray Peeples
Megan and Owen Hood with Izzy, Emily and Jasper Spradlin
Addison Brown, Caroline Hammontree, Laken Nichols and Christian and Christi Hellums with Kathryn Moss and David Caleb, Jessica, Jeff and Jacob Barnes Kylie Ingram Hellums
Corey and Emily Jackson
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Rebecca Turlington, Mia Tomasella and Madison Pearson
Levin Darsey with Jason and Riley Stewart
Stephanie Faulconer and Hannah Saia
Karen Skou and Lisa Brooks
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Creating Beautiful PARK PLACE
D E N TA L
Smiles
Ken Goodwin DMD Christine Rayburn DMD Amy Scopel DMD
Wishing You A Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year! Family dentistry
• Implants • Cosmetic dentistry • Conscious sedation • Crown and veneers in a day with CEREC Open Monday - Friday 8-5 • 662-728-8171 403 North 3rd St. Booneville, MS 38829 • www.parkplacedentist.com
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Saltillo Junior Women’s Club Paint Party View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The Saltillo Junior Women’s Club held its annual paint party Nov. 15. Instructor Kim Nicholson led two painting sessions, with lunch and a silent auction taking place between the sessions. Proceeds from the event benefited families and children in need.
Heather Tate, Jessi Woodard, Jessica Eaton, Katrina Hooper, Ellen Harrison, Shanna Young and Dana Lewis
Staci Arriola, Leisa McGee and Amy Spradling
Olivia and Emma Jennings
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Shannon Fryery, Jan Patterson, Jeannie McNinch, Julie Fulton and Lindsey Hines
Alice Massey, Megan Cooper and Julie Fulton
Sonya Burnett, Catina Newman and Hope McCoy
Darla and Ainsley Ryan
Jolie McCarter, Kim Ray and Lacee Hall
Sarah Beth McCarter and Mikki White
Goldie Dickey and Corrine Calvasina
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
SHARE YOUR EXCITING NEWS WITH AN BRIDAL ANNOUNCEMENT ENGAGEMENT THIRD PAGE, $50: Includes one picture and 100-150 words.
WEDDING HALF PAGE, $90: Includes one picture and 100-150 words. FULL PAGE, $150: Includes three pictures and 200-300 words. TWO PAGES, $275: Includes five pictures and 400-500 words. For more information, please email Hallie at hallielandonmarshall@gmail.com.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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MLS# 14-3290 $109,000 2100 HOLLY HILL DR. WILDWOOD | TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; Split bedroom plan, inground pool
MLS# 14-3311 $129,900 1701 CLAYTON AVE. JOYNER | TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/1.5 Bathrooms; completely remodeled
MLS# 14-3287 $619,500
MLS# 14-3288 $299,900
MLS# 14-3277 $219,000
5362 CHESTERVILLE RD. TUPELO 6 Bedrooms/4.5 Bathrooms; in-ground pool, barn w/ electricity, approx. 10 acres
1952 BORDEAUX LN. BORDEAUX | TUPELO 4 Bedroom/3.5 Bathrooms; Split bedroom plan
1011 BELLEDEER DRIVE BELLEDEER | TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms; beautifully remodeled inside & out
MLS# 14-3251 $259,000 145 ACADIAN CR.
ACADIAN VILLAGE | TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms; French country open large eat-in kitchen w/ keeping room & gas logs
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MLS# 14-3216 $250,000
MLS# 14-3215 $249,900
MLS# 14-3153 $109,950
MLS# 14-3064 $115,000
MLS# 14-3195 $139,900
107 VALLEY VISTA DR. MEADOWLAKE | TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms; home w/private master suite & bonus room
4741 CHESTERVILLE RD. MEADOWLAKE | TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms; new construction; two main level master suites
908 BEECHUT WILDWOOD | TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; large eat-in kitchen; inground pool; move in ready
545 WALNUT DOWNTOWN TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; cottage; new construction; split bedroom plan
2038 CRABAPPLE ST. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; new construction in cul-de-sac location, open family room & kitchen, private master suite
MLS# 14-3207 $150,000
MLS# 14-3342 $165,000
MLS# 14-3014 $174,900
MLS# 14-3252 $175,000
MLS# 14-3134 $189,900
MLS# 14-3067 $239,900
2116 REAGAN DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; quiet cul-de-sac street; split floor plan
422 WILLENA CV. WESTWIND | TUPELO
1806 CARDINAL DR. AUDUBON | TUPELO
932 DIXIE CREEK SALTILLO
518 MAGNOLIA TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, updated kitchen with granite counters & two living areas
87 VALLEY VISTA DR. MEADOWLAKE | TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms, large open formal dining, eat-in kitchen, gas fireplace
MLS# 14-3250 $229,900 4645 MEADOW BROOK DR. MEADOWLAKE | TUPELO
4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms; two masters; large eat-in kitchen w/ keeping room; beautiful pine floors & split bedroom floor plan
4 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms; large family room w/tall 10’ ceilings & gas fireplace; in-ground pool
4 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; newly updated int & ext; open eat-in kitchen w/Pierce cabinets; beautiful hardwood floors.
4 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; open & easy living floor plan; private master suite; great open kitchen
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LOTS MLS# 14-3145 $125,000 133 SAINT THOMAS GUNTOWN 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; cul-de-sac location; split bedroom plan
MLS# 14-3407 $425,000
MLS# 14-3369 $40,000 EA
MLS # 143432 $375,000
4543 LAKEWOOD LN. TUPELO COUNTRY CLUB
COLUMBINE (LOTS 128 & 129) SPRING LAKE | TUPELO
425 HIGHWAY 6 NETTLETON
3 Bedroom/2.5 Bathrooms, amazing architectural details, one owner custom built; overlooks TCC Golf Course
very spacious 3 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms; acreage w/shop 4 bays heated/cooled w/office and bath
Same Team, New Location 30 INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
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MLS# 14-3374 $219,900 101 SETH AVE. DEER PARK
4 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; This lovely home has been recently updated and renovated throughout.
MLS # 143450
$199,900
38 CLARK BLVD. FAIRPARK | TUPELO
3 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms; Townhome; large open family room and kitchen; spacious courtyard
307 WEST MAIN STREET TUPELO | MS | 38804
MLS# 14-3068 $249,500
MLS# 14-3173 $269,500
MLS# 14-3017 $310,000
2600 FOX RUN LN. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms; new construction; gas logs; cul-de-sac location
1001 VALLEY RD. NORTH TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms; beautifully renovated & remodeled!
103 CORI CV. GARDEN PARK | SALTILLO
MLS# 14-3300 $375,000 181 SCOTLAND DR. SALTILLO 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms; custom built; large formal dining w/fireplace; shop; 5 acres
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MLS# 14-3249
$114,000
MLS# 14-3376
$525,000
1935 NORTH PARC NORTH PARC
w/fireplace; bonus room
1013 EISENHOWER DR. TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; totally remodeled
MLS# 14-3324 $410,000
MLS# 14-3356 $419,500
MLS# 14-3214 $550,000
2597 ST. ANDREWS TUPELO COUNTRY CLUB 4 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms, completely renovated & movein ready, gourmet kitchen
4338 MEADOW CR. OAK MEADOWS | BELDEN 6 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, custom built, large open family room w/ fireplace
611 NORTH THOMAS ST. TUPELO 5 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms, sitting on just over 10 acres, banquet size formal dining
5 Bedrooms/4.5 Bathrooms, custom built waterfront, kitchen w/ gas fireplace, pool; 6.7 acres
MLS# 14-3136 $450,000
MLS# 14-3062 $425,000
MLS# 14-3332 $439,500
MLS# 14-3043 $450,000
MLS# 14-3408 $325,000
1546 LARKSPUR SPRINGLAKE | TUPELO 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, mediterranean style home, kitchen w/ keeping area
3173 NORTH HILL MT. VERNON PLANTATION 4 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, large formal dining & living room, 2 main level bedrooms
4595 PINE CONE LN. OAK MEADOWS | BELDEN 5 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms, French country, gourmet style kitchen, media room
4739 MEADOW LN. OAK MEADOWS | BELDEN 5 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms, quiet cul-de-sac, family room w/ fireplace, pool, lake
112 COUNTY RD. 1950 SALTILLO
4 Bedrooms/3 Bathrooms; large eat-in kitchen w/eat at counter; family room
5 Bedrooms/4.5 Bathrooms, gourmet style kitchen w/ new Pierce cabinetry, pool
MLS# 14-3007 $599,000 158 EDGEWATER DR. SALTILLO
5 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms, southern carriage style, wrap around porch, office; 2.5 acres
D L O
MLS# 14-3217 $325,000
MLS # 143427 $195,000
4539 MEADOW CR. OAK MEADOWS | BELDEN
720 NORTH MADISON HIGHLAND CR. | TUPELO
MLS# 14-3169 $69,000 AUTUMN HILLS TUPELO Lots ranging from $37,000 to $59,900
3 Bedrooms/2.5 Bathrooms; French country; enormous living & dining w/vaulted ceiling & exposed beams
3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; new roof & HVAC; guest house; beautiful character & details
MLS# 14-3223
MLS# 14-3475 $200,000
MLS# 14-3314 $199,900
1272 ELVIS PRESLEY TUPELO 3 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms; one owner home; large open eat-in kitchen; 30 acres
1956 INTERNATIONAL DR. TUPELO Commercial Property, 4 office areas, heated/cooled warehouse, reception area
$375,000
4526 RIDGEMOOR RIDGEWAY | BELDEN
4 Bedrooms/3.5 Bathrooms; traditional style; both downstairs & upstairs master suites; large eatin kitchen; beautiful pool
662.842.2710
2201 SHANNON RD. PONTOTOC 10 acres w/ private cabin, additional acreage available for lease from Natchez Trace
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MLS# 14-3317
$580,000
3116 EAST PLANTATION CR. MT. VERNON PLANTATION 6 Bedrooms/4 Bathrooms, Pool
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JasonWarrenTupelo.com December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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by Melanie Crownover
P
ulling off heroic feats is just part of the job description for local firefighters. They face down fires. They rescue families from smoke-filled buildings. They respond to emergency medical situations and deadly car wrecks. No matter the danger, there is no hesitation from the selfless men and women who make up the crews on those red trucks. Meet just a few local heroes deserving of recognition and respect.
CAPTAIN CEDRIC LOCKRIDGE
Tupelo Fire Department Captain Cedric “Lock” Lockridge got his best compliment the day he heard an emergency responder on the hand-held radio tell victims, “Lock’s on his way. Everything’s going to be okay.” That’s the kind of confidence in station
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
photographed by Joe Worthem
Area firefighters demonstrate the holiday spirit year-round by going above and beyond the call of duty to keep their communities safe. skills Lockridge (right) expects for himself and the other firefighters at Tupelo’s Station No. 6. The key, he says, is continuous training. Lockridge, 40, signed on for the job at age 18 after seeing a group of firefighters put out a blaze at his neighbor’s home. Lockridge attended the fire academy in Pearl, Miss., where he graduated at the top of his class. He rose to sergeant in just two years and to captain in six years, setting records in promotion time with the department. He also placed at the top of his class when testing for both positions. He is certified in almost every specialty open to a firefighter, from the elite smoke diver distinction to executive fire officer. “Only four of us in the department have that last one,” Lockridge said, “but about 30 percent of Tupelo firefighters are certified
smoke divers. That’s one of the hardest classes, with a 75 percent fail rate. We take a lot of pride in our training here. I know I’m very demanding of my team, but I try to lead by example.” In addition to his full-time job with the fire department, Lockridge also serves as both a part-time firefighter and a reserve police officer at Tupelo Regional Airport. “My ultimate goal since I came into this has been for me to be the most help I can be out there and make sure my crew gets home safe. That’s why I have over 4,000 hours of continuing education after the academy,” he said. “It’s a sacrifice because of time away from my family, but my worst nightmare is someone getting hurt and knowing I could have done something more.”
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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THE WITTE SISTERS
Stacie Graham (left) and Tiffany Parker (right) have been part of the Mooreville Volunteer Fire Department family since they were born. Their father, Chief Ron Witte, made sure they knew the importance of the station long before each officially joined the crew at age 15. “I remember my sister being in a car seat and him taking us on the scene and telling us to stay in the fire truck until he came back to get us,” Graham said. “Some of the older firemen were in charge of making sure we stayed put. Being in those kind of situations over the years let me know that I wanted to be able to do as much as I could to help out.” Graham, 38, is a certified volunteer firefighter and works full time during the day as a paramedic with the fire department in Southaven, Miss. Parker, 35, is a stay-athome mother when not taking the Mooreville department’s emergency calls as secretary and using her certifications in firefighting, truck driving and pump operation, wreck extrication and medical assistance. “A lot of it is harder for females because we’re built different,” Graham said, “and there are still a lot of guys out there who think we shouldn’t do this job. We just have to work harder to prove them wrong. If they were in a situation where they needed help, I’d be willing to bet they wouldn’t care as long as I could pull them out.” The Mooreville district has more females in its service than most, with seven women currently serving as volunteers and another in the process of joining the 28-person volunteer crew. The department answers around 500 calls per year, including those in Eggville, Miss.; Lake Piomingo, Miss.; and Auburn, Miss. Not only are the sisters the daughters of a longtime firefighter, but they both also married firefighters. Parker’s husband, Jason, is Mooreville’s assistant fire chief, while Graham’s husband, Patrick, is the training officer. Parker’s 4-year-old son and Graham’s dog often ride along on calls. “It’s a family tradition,” Parker said. “When we became part of the department our little family just got bigger. It’s awesome that we’re all out there together to look out for each other when things get tough. It’s scary to face the things we do, but together we can take it.”
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
CHIEF WILLIE PAYNE
There was no volunteer fire department in Belden, Miss., when Willie Payne moved to the area. The North Carolina native, who’d watched his uncle man the station across the street from his boyhood home, put his six years of volunteer firefighting experience to use by helping found the Belden Volunteer Fire Department in 1980. “I didn’t know if it would work then because most of them had never even touched a real fire truck,” Payne said. “Until you crawl through a house looking for people with no visibility because of the smoke and pieces of burning building falling on you, you don’t know if you’re made for this. It takes a special kind of person. Luckily, we have some good ones here.” Payne, 64, is now one of only two charter members left at the station. The fire chief – who also worked full time in security at North Mississippi Medical Center for 17 years – has gone on countless calls in his 40 years of firefighting service. And he watched the fledgling Belden firehouse grow from one truck to three, responding to around 100 calls a year. “We don’t have to build the trucks ourselves or use hand-me-downs anymore,” he said. “Everything in the station is paid for, we have 10 great firefighters and money in the bank ... we’ve come a long way. We even have to be more careful in our upgraded gear because the heat protection is so good. We used to just come out when our ears started burning.” Although he’s witnessed many heartwrenching situations over his career, Payne never questions the choice he made to put on a firefighter’s helmet at age 21. “I’ve gotten to the age that if you see me put on an oxygen tank and head in the building you know it’s bad,” he said. “This job takes its toll, but I wouldn’t trade my time with these people for anything. It shows you to respect life and live it every day.” December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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As the area’s premier events magazine, we get invited to all the best parties, fundraisers, sporting events and general good times. When you follow Invitation Tupelo on Facebook and Twitter, you’ll get updates on all the latest events and stay in the know.
Click “Like” at facebook.com/ invitationtupelo Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/invtupelo
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
Home for the Holidays Thanks to volunteer efforts, tornado-affected residents like Carol Cummings are grateful to be spending the holidays in their newly rebuilt homes.
Editor’s Note: This story is part of a series on how Tupelo continues to rebuild following the April 28, 2014, tornado. When Carol Cummings surveyed the damage to her Clayton Avenue home after the April tornado, she never thought she would be finished rebuilding by the holidays. “I knew I was blessed even then. One end of our street was missing four houses, and the other was nothing but downed trees. I just figured I would never have enough insurance or money for repairs to not still be working next year on a project here or there as I could afford it,” she said. Her damages weren’t as massive as some in the neighborhood. There was a tree limb through the kitchen roof and other exterior roof damage, broken windows, limbs down in the front, and a tree covering the backyard that hit the fence and deck. The estimate for tree removal alone came to $11,000. Cummings, a teacher at Shannon High School, first spent three weeks in a hotel and then used only her home’s two bedrooms and bath as a living space for four months. But she found a way to speed up the rebuilding when Eight Days of Hope came to town with more than 3,000 volunteers for a week in July. Local volunteers working with the disaster relief organization had already helped Cummings drain water from her kitchen and put plastic over broken windows after the storm, but the July event brought a team to her home to replace her fence and repair the deck. Cummings’ home was one of 235 homes in the area to receive part of the $5.2 million worth of repair and remodeling work done; however, volunteers with the Tupelo-based organization weren’t finished rebuilding.
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
OPPOSITE: Eight Days of Hope helped Carol Cummings rebuild her tornado-damaged Clayton Street home during its July and November volunteer missions in Tupelo. LEFT: Cummings’ backyard and deck, which had been severely damaged by fallen trees, were among the items repaired by the disaster relief organization.
NEW HOPE
Another group of Eight Days volunteers came back to level and seed Cummings’ front yard this summer, and, as they do with many of their other relief efforts nationwide, a crew of 60 skilled Eight Days workers returned in November to try to complete repairs on 30 houses left unfinished. Cummings watched as a new group of volunteers put the last touches on her home – painting the exterior, putting together her storage building and breaking up her old sidewalk to pour a new one. “The greatest sermon I’ve ever heard is the one I saw here,” Eight Days founder and president Steve Tybor said. “I’ve seen plenty of disaster, but watching over 3,000 volunteers from all over come to help people hurting in your hometown? I still get emotional every time I drive down the street and think the people in the house I’m passing have that part of their life back because of it. People take vaca-
tion time and drive down on their own dime to do this for people they don’t know.” Tybor, along with his children and 76-year-old father, was among the volunteers working to help tornado-affected Tupelo residents repair their homes before Christmas. For Cummings, the gift of project completion meant she could host her family’s Thanksgiving celebration for the first time in 10 years. Her three sisters, their families and her mother gathered together in her newly finished home to celebrate. “The volunteers at Eight Days of Hope are way up there on that list of what I’m thankful for. I never could have recovered this quickly without them, and they thanked me for allowing them to come here and help me,” Cummings said. “I don’t think I could ever make them understand how much what they did means to me or how seeing their willingness to help helped me through this.”
In response to the devastation Steve Tybor witnessed firsthand just minutes after the tornado hit the Joyner neighborhood, he and other Eight Days of Hope leaders have decided to expand their services. “It’s good to know that the next disaster down the road will benefit from what we learned here during our own time of need,” Tybor said. “I had never seen disaster that quickly after it happened. I’ve always come in weeks after when so much has already been done, and this made me realize we need people in there to help sooner somehow.” Hope Reigns, a new branch of the organization that offers more immediate disaster relief, officially launched in October and will be ready to mobilize volunteers as of Jan. 1, 2015. The outreach promises the assistance of a 36-member volunteer team to remove tree limbs and tarp roofs within 48-72 hours of a disaster. Services are available anywhere in the 48 contiguous United States. For information on the new branch, visit eightdaysofhope.com. December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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PETS
Wishing You A
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
of the Month
nterspirit with some furry Share the Ceholiday e r a C l a Af nTuim friends this year. Stop by the Tupelo-Lee pelo o
a re A n im a l C C e nt e r
Humane Society at 2400 S. Gloster St., or visit tupeloleehumane.org to make a donation or to adopt a pet.
e” Center l Caror a im n A mily doct fa r he ot “your of Tupe tloer al Care Cen AnTuim pelo o f Tu p elo
5362 Cliff Gookin Blvd. • Tupelo, MS 38801 • (662) 842-8707 • www.animalcarecenteroftupelo.com
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
PHOTOGRAPHED BY LISA ROBERTS
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IN SEASON Pecans by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
T
his time of year is more than just the holiday season for Bill Duke and his family: It’s pecan season. The Dukes have dealt in pecans since Bill’s grandparents began selling them in their general store in 1938. Now Duke Pecan Company includes both the original West Point, Miss., location and a seasonal Tupelo branch. Together, they sell several truckloads of fresh pecans between November and December. Picking season begins late in October, and, as with most produce, the weather is crucial to yielding a good crop. Too much or too little rain during maturation can determine not only the size of the harvest but also the taste and meat content of each pecan.
The Dukes get a portion of their stock from growers in Alabama and Georgia, but their Mississippi-grown native and Stuart pecans are their best sellers. “Native pecans are about as organic as you can get, and the nut meat and oil is very flavorful because most are yard grown without pesticides,” he said. “Stuarts make what we call a mammoth half, though, that many people prefer for making pies and such.” A mammoth half generally refers to the largest pecan halves sold. The delicate nut is featured in many popular holiday treats, from traditional pecan pie to chocolate-caramel-pecan turtles. A Duke family favorite is this Pecan Caramel Cheesecake that puts their signature commodity center stage on their holiday table every year.
Pecan Caramel Cheesecake
Simply Superb Pecan Pie
¼ cup graham cracker crumbs ¼ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/3 cup margarine or butter, melted 1 (14-ounce) package caramels, unwrapped ½ cup plus 3 Tablespoons half-and-half 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 3 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pecan halves or pieces
3 eggs, beaten 1 cup sugar ½ cup dark corn syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 6 Tablespoons melted butter or margarine 1½ cups pecans, pieces or halves 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat eggs thoroughly with sugar, corn syrup, vanilla and melted butter. Add pecans. Pour into unbaked 9-inch pie shell. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until middle of pie seems set. Cover crust with foil after 30 minutes to prevent burning. Let cool, and serve.
Preheat oven to 300°F. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and margarine; press firmly on bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. In a heavy saucepan, combine all but 10 caramels with 1/2 cup half-and-half. Over medium-low heat, cook and stir until melted and smooth. Stir in chopped pecans. Spread over prepared crust. Bake 15 minutes, and then cool slightly. Meanwhile, in large mixer bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Pour into springform pan over prepared and slightly cooled crust. Bake 1 hour or until set (center will be slightly soft). Cool. In a small saucepan, combine reserved caramels and remaining 3 Tablespoons half-and-half; cook over low heat, stirring, until melted and smooth. Immediately spread over cake. Garnish with pecan halves. Chill thoroughly before serving. These recipes are from U.S. Pecans, an industry association that promotes U.S.-grown pecans. Visit uspecans.org to learn more.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Chasity Dees
events Taste of Tupelo View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The Community Development Foundation’s Taste of Tupelo is a networking event for local restaurants and other businesses. Participants host exhibits and share food and drink samples with one another and other guests. The event was held Nov. 6 at BancorpSouth Arena.
Christy Stewart and Patrice Gamblin
Kim Waddle, Heather Hutcheson, Vickie Ramirez and Jeanie Smith
Shaketta Miller, Candace McFarland and Ira Kinard
Elizabeth Gable and Lynne Rogers
Benjamin Stewart, Jensen Curtis, Rima Salem and Monther Jessica Hathcock, Jasmine Fair, Alexis Presley and Erar Melinda Hamilton
Patrice King and Lionel Land
Memory and Debra Carouthers
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John Ingle and Amber Beane
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Kyle Benson and Greg Sanders
The Bachelor of General Studies degree at The University of Mississippi was created to meet the needs of students who have accumulated college credits but have not completed a bachelor’s degree program. The BGS provides maximum flexibility with defined career objectives and includes the core curriculum, three minors, and electives.
olemiss.edu/tupelo The Bachelor of General Studies degree is offered on the Tupelo campus located in the Advanced Education Center. To learn more about the BGS and other UM degree programs, call (662) 844-5622 or visit the website at olemiss.edu/tupelo. Take care of your business at The University of Mississippi-Tupelo.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Tupelo Arts Showcase View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The fourth-annual Tupelo Arts Showcase was held Nov. 15 at the Link Centre. The event celebrates visual and performing arts by bringing artists together with the community. It included an art exhibit, live music, poetry readings and a Civic Ballet performance.
Glenn Payne and Charlie Buckley
Nicol, Victor, Simona, Dilyana and Tzonko Milev
Allison Griswold and Lori Grelen
Lance and Lisa Bennett with Matthew Hutcheson
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Pauline, Bill “Howl-N-Madd� and Shy Perry
Tara Van Komen and Amy Robison
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Call Cindy Semmes, Director of Advertising, for more information at (662) 701-8070. December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Downtown Tupelo Holiday Open House View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
More than a dozen downtown Tupelo businesses, including shops, museums and restaurants, kicked off the holiday season on Nov. 23 with a holiday open house. The event was sponsored by Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association.
Emily Hall and Melissa Murphy
Jimmy Long, Becky Rollins, Joe Yarber, Holley Meriweather and Dan Rollins
Connie Tullos, George Booth II and George Booth III
Kim Caron, Barbara Eaton and Paige Knapp
Sandra White and Susan Parker
Kenn Gray, Bev Crossen, John Thomas Matthews and Traci Bailey Rutherford, Camille Sloan, Ana Grace Rutherford Lewis and Lexie Wise
Traci Lewis and Kim Gambrell Crausby
Evans Sanders and Tracy Kramer
Zach Jordan, Jennifer Hudson and Alexa Werling
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A Smoky Mountain New Year’s Eve
British Landscapes
(Dec 29, 2014 – Jan 1 , 2015) • Three nights lodging in Pigeon Forge • Country Tonite Show • The Grand Majestic Theater • Applewood Farmhouse Dinner • The Wood Grill Dinner Buffet • Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant • 3 Breakfasts • Shopping at the Outlet Malls • Guided tour of the Smoky Mountains
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141 West Bankhead St New Albany, MS 38652 Phone: 662-534-5203
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
(April 16 - April 25, 2015) Day 1: Overnight Flight Day 2-3: Grange Tower Bridge Hotel, London Day 4: Marriott York, York Day 5-6: King James Thistle Hotel, Edinburgh Day 7: Ruthin Castle, Ruthin Day 8-9: Falcon Hotel, Stratford-Upon-Avon
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Phone: (662) 256-9331 ext. 207 Fax: (662) 256-9335 Hours: Mon - Fri, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Look for us on Facebook
w w w. p a n d s c l i n i c . c o m December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Vegas Night
View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
A talented cast presented Las Vegas-style vocal performances for Tupelo Community Theatre’s Vegas Night, held Nov. 20-21 at TCT’s Off Broadway location. For a schedule of upcoming TCT performances, visit tct.ms.
Suzanne Oakley, David Jenkins, Lisa Martin, Clark Richey and Amye and Mickey Gousset
Darren Crow, Keith Tackett, Robert Byers and Graham Lyons
Shelley and Derek Russell
Allison and Rick Griswold
Buddy and Vicky Vance
Kayla and Barrett Morgan
Jenny and David Jones
Scott and Stephanie Coomer
Patricia and Gerry Braswell
Bobby Geno, Tom Booth and Craig Helmuth
Betty Wheatley with Emma and Rois Shook
Kim Jenkins with Kim and Molly Haynes
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
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k cs s choo l o fha i r.c o m December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Chasity Dees
events An Evening of Latin American Music View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The Link Centre presented An Evening of Latin American Music, featuring classical guitar and piano by Mississippi State University professors Michael Patilla and Rosangela Sebba, on Nov. 21. For upcoming Link Centre events, visit link-centre.org.
Bob and Nikki Kenney with Mike and Carmita West
Jim Harris with Polly and Will Wroten and Sarah Harris
Michael Patilla and Rosangela Sebba
Kenneth and Morgan Floyd
Wanda and George Dent
Steve and Donna Stall
Diamond Brokers TUPELO
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Come see us. She’ll be glad you did. “Big girls need big diamonds.” - Elizabeth Taylor
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
662.844.6955
106 S. Industrial Road, Tupelo, MS 38801 Hours: M-F 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
www.tupelodiamonds.com
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Corinth Red Green Market View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
Red Green Market, a holiday-themed version of the monthly farmers market held at Corinth Depot, took place Nov. 22. Green Market takes place the first Saturday of each month from April through October. Visit corinthgreenmarket.net for more information.
Shirley and Ray Reaves
Chad and Amy Austin
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Jamie Hajek, Isabel Goad, Erin Braddock and Marlie Miles
Janis Wilhite and Mary Storey
Christy and Barbara Horn with Debbie Hutchens
Cathy Cossey with Delilah and Anna Grace Meeks
Aikley, Rosaline and Ashton Harvell
Jennifer Timbes and Kelly Young
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Periodontics and Dental Implants Dr. Michael M. Perry • Dr. Brenda L. Fowler Oxford • Bartlett • Collierville • Southaven • Memphis
Dr. Perry and Dr. Fowler have a periodontal practice with an emphasis on Dental Implants, the Treatment and Management of Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) in a relaxed setting.
actice with an NT and MANAGEMENT relaxed setting. To schedule your implant evaluation appt. please call today 866.667.4867
Dr. Perry, Dr. Fowler, and their staff are happy to schedule you for a periodontal evaluation and/or a no cost implant consult.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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YEARS OF
ELVIS
ROGER MARSHUTZ PHOTOGRAPH REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM PETER MARSHUTZ
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
The three-day, citywide celebration in the works for Elvis Presley’s 80th birthday proves his spirit is alive and well in his hometown. ELVIS PRESLEY fans will commemorate the King’s 80th birthday Jan. 8, and the City of Tupelo is set to celebrate the milestone. “We celebrate Elvis here every day, and his birthday is always a party here, but we’ve never done anything like this,” said Dick Guyton, executive director of the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum. This year, the Birthplace is teaming up with the Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau, Link Centre, Tupelo Community Theatre, North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and GumTree Museum of Art to make the birthday celebration a citywide tribute. “Hundreds of people visit Tupelo every year on Elvis’s birthday, but on the ones that end in 5 or 0, those numbers move up into the thousands,” Jennie Bradford Curlee of the CVB said. “We’re pretty sure that the things we have planned for this year should keep everyone coming back.” The celebration happens Jan. 8-10 with the organizations offering tribute performances, exhibits and events in honor of the big birthday. “Elvis’s birthday is always a great opportunity for people to visit our town and really experience the place that helped him rise to fame,” Curlee said. “We want to honor him using the things he loved – music, theater, movies – to build a celebration that both the out-of-town guests and our locals will love too. And since it’s a big birthday for him, we’re doing this as big as we can.”
Elvis Presley Birthplace
Tupelo Community Theatre
Elvis Presley Birthplace will host its traditional birthday party for the King Jan. 8. In addition to the normal draws of the site – such as Elvis’s boyhood home and church, a documentary on his life in Tupelo and a museum full of rare personal items – visitors can partake in punch and cookies at the event center until officials cut his birthday cake there at 1 p.m. This year’s cake will be a special one. “Kermit’s Bakery used to be where Kermit’s Outlaw Kitchen is now across from Reed’s. That was the place to get a cake here back in his day, and every year they sent him a cake no matter where he was playing while he was alive,” Guyton said. “In the early ’60s they made a special one for him we have a picture of, and that’s the one we’re getting made for his 80th.” The five-tier cake features red and white decorations with roses and guitars all over. In addition to the afternoon cake cutting, the Birthplace will host Elvis tribute artist David Lee with a social hour at 6:30 p.m. and a concert at 8 p.m.
Also the evening of Jan. 8, Tupelo Community Theatre will open its production of Graceland by Ellen Byron at TCT Off Broadway, 213 E. Franklin St. The show runs Jan. 8-10 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets ($20), call 662-844-1935.
Link Centre Over at the Link Centre on Jan. 8, Elvis will be celebrated with an audience-friendly singalong screening of Elvis’s movie Jailhouse Rock at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults, $5 students.
GumTree Museum of Art GumTree Museum of Art will continue the fête on Jan. 9 with a ticketed party ($25) from 7 to 10 p.m. that will feature the Memphis Jones Trio band, a special blue drink in honor of Elvis and the work of official Elvis Presley Enterprises artist Betty Harper, which will be exhibited throughout January. The party is sponsored by the CVB. Proceeds will benefit the museum and the 2015 GumTree Festival.
North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra The commemorative birthday celebration will conclude the evening of Jan. 10 with a performance of Elvis tunes by the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, featuring guest artist Richard Marx. The concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. at BancorpSouth Arena.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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821 S Gloster St Tupelo, MS 38801 (662) 842-7260
Mon - Sat 6 am – 8:30 pm Sun 7 am – 2 pm
Connie’s Chicken
Family owned & operated. In business for over 37 years & voted Tupelo’s Best Fried Chicken.
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
In celebration of Elvis Presley’s 80th birthday, Invitation Tupelo caught up with these successful young stars who are making it big in the entertainment world, from Nashville stages to Hollywood screens. Like the King himself, they are proud to be from northeast Mississippi. interviews by Melanie Crownover
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Providing caregivers Providing caregivers forfor families like yours families like yours forfor over years. over 1313 years.
Breaking Grass
EXPERTISE: Bluegrass band. Members
include Zach Wooten, mandolin; Britt Sheffield, upright bass; Tyler White, fiddle; Thelton Vanderford, banjo; Cody Farrar, lead singer and rhythm guitar.
HOMETOWNS: Members originate from all around north Mississippi – Booneville, Rienzi, Corinth, Jumpertown and Dennis.
BIG HITS: The latest album, Just as Strong (2014), debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Bluegrass Album Chart, and hit song Carry On Carolina, from the album Running with the Moon (2012), reached No. 2 on the Billboard Bluegrass Singles Chart. Editor’s note: We interviewed lead singer Cody Farrar.
Breaking Grass
PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALANE ANNO
Bluegrass band Breaking Grass has gone from performing at senior centers in the area to signing with a record label and touring the southeastern U.S. to play venues ranging from church festivals to bluegrass competitions. Learn more about the band and their music at breakinggrass.com.
INVITATION TUPELO:
How did your
band form?
CODY FARRAR: I was in college looking for someone to play with me for the senior citizens in Marietta. We played a couple of times a month at the community center for a while. We started out doing old bluegrass standards, and as we got tighter, our own sound came out. IT: How have your venues changed since then? CF: It’s been drastic. Now we’re recognized by the [Mississippi] House of Representatives and have played the state Capitol and the Bluebird Café in Nashville. Our songs have been played in over 20 countries, and we’ve done festivals, weddings and private parties in, I think, 10 states. The intimate shows are our favorites.
IT: Has bluegrass always been your favorite? CF: I didn’t find it until I was already out of
high school. I listened mainly to rock until then, and we all still listen to a good mix of styles. We have a lot of people come up and say they never liked bluegrass until us, and I think it’s because those influences show through.
IT: Did the Elvis influence of the area affect your band? CF: He’s in the mix. My mother had all the Elvis movies when I was growing up and still has her Sirius radio set to his station. He’s definitely been an influence since childhood. We’ve never tried any of his songs live, though. To try to come close to comparing to what he had onstage is impossible, so we leave that to the King.
IT: Has signing with a label changed things? CF: We signed with Mountain Fever Records in Virginia in March. We were already estab-
lished and doing as many dates as we wanted when we signed, but now we have someone in our corner to help make it happen.
IT: How did the alternative genre portion of your show start? CF: At one of the weekly practices, one of us was plucking away on a CeeLo Green song, and we thought it would be pretty cool to do some different songs from each decade and other styles onstage. It’s a regular part of our shows now ... The Eagles, Backstreet Boys, a little bit of everything done our way. We want everyone there to have a good time.
IT: How do the bluegrass purists react? CF: You always have one tough nut in each crowd. But the fans who come up after the show to tell us how much they loved it outweigh the ones who say this isn’t real bluegrass. December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
63
Allie Grant
EXPERTISE: Acting
HOMETOWN: Tupelo, originally. Now lives in Los Angeles.
BIG HITS: Five seasons on Showtime’s series Weeds as Isabella Hodes; four seasons on ABC’s Suburgatory as Lisa Shay; nominated for two Screen Actors Guild ensemble awards with the cast of Weeds
INVITATION TUPELO: How did you get into acting?
ALLIE GRANT:
I was always in school plays at Church Street Elementary, Tupelo Community Theatre camp in the summer, and I performed at nursing homes and hospitals. If someone gave me a chance and there was a stage, I was there. I had so many teachers there who were such advocates of writing and the creative arts, and those were some of the most influential years of my life.
IT: How did you get your big break? AG: When I was 6 and 9, I did an event in Dallas where agents and managers came to see rural talent. That changed things because it’s difficult to make your way from Mississippi into the opportunities in a larger place like L.A.
IT: Isn’t that the same type of event your mom does now with Showcase South? AG: That’s why. She does those to promote the talent we have here because I’m a testament to its potency. Sometimes you just need the right connection to make the move and flourish. Had I not gone to an event like the one [held Dec. 5-7] in Oxford, I would probably still be wondering how to get to Hollywood. IT: What did you learn about acting from your time on Weeds? AG: We moved when I was 10, and I auditioned for the pilot of Weeds within a couple of weeks. I spent five very vital years of my life growing up on that show with some amazing people. The most important thing I learned was to trust other actors in a scene like you’re in an agreement. You can be vulnerable and know you’ll be taken care of. The other thing I learned was to trust myself and my instincts – not just as an actor but as a person.
IT: Did the comedy come naturally to you on Suburgatory? AG: I got to spend almost every day with Chris Parnell and Ana Gasteyer, who are
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
comedy giants to me. There are no conscious comedy choices there. Being able to speak their language and respond just changes you. You’re so inspired by the ethos, and it becomes innate. I guess they showed me to allow myself to laugh, especially at myself, and embrace my joy.
IT: How did growing up in Elvis’s shadow here prepare you for Hollywood? AG: I think the amazing thing about his journey that always inspires you to keep going is the sacrifice and relentless belief he had in what he did. He had this ability to set aside social convention to develop his art and could put off social expectations about his abilities because of his roots to do what he was made to do. He let those roots guide him no matter where he was.
IT: How hard is it to hold on to those roots when you’re on the job? AG: Honestly, people always expect you to say it’s a daily struggle but it’s not. It’s as much a part of me as my blood and bones. Mississippi is still where my family is. It’s where I spend the holidays and come to see my cousins play ball in the summer. I have a standing date with Grandma every Sunday to talk on the phone and get the latest news on what’s going on back there, and I can’t imagine being from anywhere else. It’s like a badge of honor I get to share with the world when people ask me where I’m from. IT: What do you have in the works now? AG: I have two episodes airing in the
next several weeks, one with The Red Band Society on Fox and another with The Goldbergs on ABC. I’m hoping to return to The Goldbergs next year. There are also a couple of films I’m currently working on, and I just finished another Brian Dannelly project that already has 10,000 hits on YouTube. It’s a web comedy series called Zombie Basement that will release the first three episodes at the beginning of next year.
HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHED BY ADAM HENDERSHOTT; WEEDS PHOTOGRAPHS CONTRIBUTED BY SHOWTIME
Actress Allie Grant, 20, spent most of her childhood in Tupelo, and much of her family still lives in Mississippi. She moved to Los Angeles at age 10 and landed a role on the hit Showtime series Weeds (pictured above with her TV parents played by Elizabeth Perkins and Andy Midler). She also played the quirky Lisa Shay on the ABC sitcom Suburgatory, and she recently appeared on an episode of The Red Band Society on Fox.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
65
HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLINT PARISH; PERFORMANCE PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTED BY PRISCILLA BARKER
Priscilla Barker
EXPERTISE: Country singer, songwriter, guitarist
HOMETOWN: Amory, Miss. BIG HITS: 2011 Corinth Slugfest Idol winner; 2013 American Idol contestant; 1 of 122 Hollywood finalists on the fourth season of The Voice.
Editor’s note: A portion of this interview took place shortly after Barker’s first appearance on American Idol aired in January 2014. She declined to speak about the season that airs in January 2015.
Priscilla Barker’s first brush with fame came when she made it to Hollywood week on American Idol in the show’s 14th season, which aired in January 2014. Now she’s preparing to move to Nashville to pursue her music career, and she may be appearing again on Idol in January 2015.
INVITATION TUPELO:
When did you
IT: How did it end last time? PB: Last year, I made it to the end of Holly-
I’ve always sang, but I started writing songs at about 14 and picked up the guitar at the same time because they just went together. My grandmother was a professional singer in Chattanooga, Tenn. It skipped a generation and came to me, which is kind of funny because I’m the baby of 10 kids.
wood week into the top 77 and came home. It was rough, but it made me realize how much I love what I do and how bad I want this.
start performing?
PRISCILLA BARKER:
IT: When did you decide to try out for American Idol? PB: I’ve told my Mama since I was little that I would be on there one day. IT: What was the audition like? PB: Two days of chaos. There
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
under my name this past year. We opened up for the Gentrys at the Amory Railroad Festival this summer and did a lot of other shows doing a mix of my originals and some covers. Now I’m planning on moving to Nashville officially.
IT: Why Nashville? PB: I’ve always had that goal, but now that I’m
were about 10,000 people at open call in Atlanta last year, and you have to go through a few rounds of pre-judging before you ever get to be in front of the panel on TV.
old enough and have the connections, I want to make the move and pursue my career. I’ve played a good bit there over the years at places like Puckett’s and the Bluebird Café. I want those opportunities in my backyard every day.
IT: Did you get star struck? PB: When I got in and saw
IT: Is it true you had another big audition there
Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. waiting for me to sing, it really set in. It’s hard not to let the nerves get you with them watching because they are such professionals that just being there is an honor. You have to tell yourself, “This is my time” and just take a breath and sing.
66
IT: What have you been doing since then? PB: I’ve been working with a band doing shows
this summer? PB: I did go up for this season’s American Idol auditions [in Nashville], but I contractually cannot say much about that at this point. The show doesn’t start until January. I would just say you need to stay tuned, and be watching for me when the new season starts.
Merry Christmas!
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December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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VISIT AMORY, MISSISSIPPI
The Amory Regional Museum is dedicated to preserve, curate and archive historical significant regional history, genealogical interest, and provide innovative, educational programming that celebrates the culture and community of Amory, Mississippi and the surrounding area.
HOURS: Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m. Closed Mondays and Major Holidays
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662-256-2761
Email: bomiller@cityofamoryms.com suebrown@cityofamoryms.com 801 3rd Street South, Amory, MS 38821
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
VISIT OUR
WEBSITE invitationtupelo.com TO SUBSCRIBE TO
$50 FOR 10 ISSUES
HUGE Winter Sale
going on NOW at Silly Simpson’s!
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
69
photographed by Ginger Enis
events Dave Clark Celebrity Golf Tournament View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
The Clark and Enis Family Foundation held the Dave Clark Celebrity Golf Tournament Nov. 11 at Tupelo Country Club to raise money for northeast Mississippi tornado victims. Following the tournament, the foundation presented $7,500 to the American Red Cross.
Vivian and Dave Clark with Patty Tucker and Josh, Patsy, Gary, Cathy, Nicole, Mark, John Patrick, Garrett, Max and Miles Enis
Clay Dozier, Brian Long, Brian Dozier and Clay Weatherford
Billy Nichols, F.G. Wiygul, Buddy Long and Bill Collins
Cole McCarty, Neal McCoy, Jonathan McCoy and Matt McCarty
Frank Bensieck Jr., Frank Bensieck, Victor Suggs and Mike Jones
Brian Rigby, Damon Palmer, Matt Clayton and Vince Hodges
Will Kollmeyer, Coach Robert Braddy, Wesley Wright, Dennis Sweet and Kevin Davidson Curtis Wilkerson, Gary Redus and Ron “Papa Jack� Jackson
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
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photographed by Lisa Roberts
events Cooking Like the Stars View more event photos @ facebook.com/invitationtupelo.
Well-known members of the community served as the chefs for the second-annual Cooking Like the Stars cooking challenge, a benefit for Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi. The event took place Nov. 23 at Park Heights.
Ronnie and Lauren Pitts
Amy Trapp and Jenea Britton
Craig and Rhonda Horton
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Jim Goodwin, Jackie Deaton, Dianne Craig and Louis Britton
Mark Craig, Richard Tucker, Ann White and Julianne Goodwin
Evie Storey and Zell Long
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Laura Russell and Megan McCarty
Kathy and Rick Beasley
Andy McGregor and Annie Goodwin
Patsy and Kevin Hitt
662-680-4506 144 South Thomas, Spanish Village Court, Suite 101-6, Tupelo, MS 38801
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
73
When the time comes, we have the perfect place for your loved one
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
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December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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out and about
CONTINUED ON PAGE 78
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT LOLLIPOP BOUTIQUE
TUPELO CONCERT ASSOCIATION’S SAXSATIONAL FEATURING ROB VERDI
Emily, Kylie Jo and Bradlyn Lyons; William and Emily McKinley; Sarah Fowler; Maci McClellen; Olivia and Caroline Skou; Lexi Hall; Samantha Turba; and Mary Clair Kelly
Michael Clayton, Jeff Sewell, Linda Kinsey, Rob Verdi and Russell Ware
CITY OF BALDWYN CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
Maggie Martin and Katlyn Chism
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Bethany Stevens, Alise McCreary and Laura McCreary
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Mandi Ryan, Audrey Henderson and Jody Bailey
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT ABOUT THE SOUTH
MAGNOLIA BUSINESS CENTRE MEET AND GREET WITH DRIVER ADAM ROMITO
Bailey Martin, Leanna Long and Zoe Lovern
Adam Romito with Landry and Braxton Vinet, Joe Estess and Matt and Rhonda Romito
SAFETY DAY AT HEALTHWORKS!
Cami Buntin, Jack Denton, Adam Romito, Gracie Dickerson and Orion Townsend HAVEN’S PREMIER YOGAWEAR AT PURE YOGA
Brianna Benton, Bailey Holcomb, Rosalina Kinard, Skye Kinard and Lakendra Davis
Kayla Hawkins, Abby Wallace and Rebecca Goysich
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT MIDNITE POTTERY
OPEN HOUSE AT SNAP FITNESS TUPELO
Karen Dubose with Sidney and Lauren Darsey
Jase Wilbanks, Heath Moffitt, Devin Byrd, Will Dempsey and Donnie McCarter
Tracy Squillante, Kristi Paxton, Sonja Hamilton, Taylor Neal and Jillian Squillante
Blakely Lollar, Bill Cassilly and Merissa Rambo
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
77
out and about
CONTINUED ON PAGE 80
GRAND OPENING AND OPEN HOUSE AT SPARROW’S ON MAIN
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT NEW BEGINNINGS
Keri McMillin, Paula Malone, Tina Franks, Pam Fair, Sherry Bennett, Mary Timms and Ginny Roberts
Tom Velie, Alicia Milstead, Tricia Robbins, Amanda Ashcraft, Renae Vallas and Jonathan Gordon
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE WITH SANTA AT ROOM TO ROOM
Santa and Aidan Ray
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Paola, Kennedy and Virginia Hodges
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Zack Bledsoe, Gowan Cain, Brooke Bledsoe, Terri Clair Cain and Averi Allyn Cain
Children's & Tween' Clothing ' Gifts for All Ages
662-706-1128 • 65rosesmarketplace.gmail.com 105 E Main St. Baldwyn, MS
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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out and about
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 78
CELEBRATION OF HOPE TELETHON AT BARNES CROSSING MALL
Tina Finch and Kamme Riddle
Kay Mathews, Vicki Gallard and Robbie Parman
Emily Leonard Laubhan and Terry Smith
OPENING RECEPTION FOR BRADLEY GORDON’S EXHIBIT AT GUMTREE MUSEUM OF ART
Antoinette Badenhorst, Bradley Gordon and Koos Badenhorst
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Kris and Danielle Del Grande
INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
Joan Ball and Sally Elliott
ADVERTISE IN Call Cindy Semmes, Director of Advertising, for more information at (662) 701-8070.
Photograph taken at the Oren Dunn Museum
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December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
IS YOUR MAGAZINE
We want to hear your story ideas!
Do you have a friend we should write about? Are you part of an organization that deserves a story? Is there a picture-perfect place we should photograph? Submit story ideas to us at erwelly@gmail.com or by calling (662) 234-4008.
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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Internationally grown coffee beans find their way to Tupelo, where they are roasted, ground and eventually brewed into hot drinks that not only warm winter chills but also benefit underserved communities on a global level. by Melanie Crownover
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
photographed by Joe Worthem
THE AROMA WAFTING FROM THOMAS STREET COFFEE CO. ON SOUTH COLEY ROAD GREETS VISITORS BEFORE THEY REACH THE DOOR. THE SMELL OF FRESHLY GROUND COFFEE ENTICES CAFFEINE-DEPRIVED PATRONS EVEN FROM THE PARKING LOT. Inside, burlap coffee bags and coffee bean paraphernalia decorate the space. A menu on the wall features a list of nine regular and two flavored coffees available for purchase. But this is no ordinary coffee shop. The real work is going on in the next room, where manager Greg Sanders and roast master Kyle Benson fresh-roast and package coffee beans from around the world daily. “We’ve had some people get pretty disappointed when they walk in here and figure out they can’t get a cappuccino to go,” Sanders said. “But they usually end up walking out with a bag of fresh ground [coffee] before they leave.” The coffee distributor opened in 2012 as a faith-based initiative and affiliate of the local American Family Association (AFA). Here’s how it works: Thomas Street Coffee purchases high-quality raw beans for a premium price from farms in countries such as Peru, Uganda and Papua New Guinea. Then the farmers use their profits to pay a fair wage to the workers who pick the beans and to build community resources such as wells, clinics and schools. Meanwhile, sales of the roasted coffee benefit AFA. Sanders and Benson just make sure the beans are roasted to perfection so the product sells to keep those beneficial relationships going. After the cherrylike coffee fruit is grown, handpicked and run through a mill to remove the seed, the green coffee beans are shipped to California. Thomas Street annexes its product
there and places orders for it as needed. The beans then meet the 12-kilo roaster in the back room at Thomas Street Coffee, a towering machine that blackens the beans by heating them at high temperatures. The exact roasting temperature is determined by each particular brand’s roasting profile recipe. “Our coffee is so fresh we have to keep it in dated bins because it’s supposed to degas for 24-48 hours after you roast it. If someone comes in and buys something that just came out of the roaster that day, we have to remind them to let it rest before they brew it or the bloom of bubbles when it brews could overflow their pot,” Benson said. “If you brew coffee and it just sits there like sand, that’s not fresh.” The two roasting experts also have their own area in the shop where they taste each 25-pound batch in what they call a “cupping,” a blind taste test similar to a sommelier-led wine tasting. With three different types of brewing machines, electronic scales, measuring spoons and beakerlike tasting cups, the stainless steel testing table looks more like a science lab than a place to roast coffee. “We have to be very precise to make sure we’re bringing out the right flavor of that region in the bean, so we measure the coffee exactly and get the temperature to a certain degree. We even pour the filtered water on the grounds a certain way to see how it blooms. We keep the tastings down to one or two cups a day, though,” Benson said, smiling. “And, no, December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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MY CUP RUNNETH OVER
Thomas Street Coffee isn’t the only place in Tupelo roasting coffee beans for a cause. My Brother's Cup is also a faith-based business that sells freshly roasted coffee to support mission work in remote and impoverished communities around the world. My Brother's Cup ground coffee is sold at Tupelo Flea Market and by the cup at Crave and The Neon Pig. Visit mybrotherscup.com or find them on Facebook to learn more.
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015
THE DILWORTH DOCTORS
(l to r) Mel
Whitfield, DVM, MS • Sara Adolphson Nelms, DVM Amy W. Parker, DVM • Laurie Dilworth Simons, DVM
Kyle Benson and Greg Sanders run Thomas Street Coffee Co. No ordinary coffee shop, Thomas Street roasts and sells freshly ground coffee beans to support communities around the world.
we don’t cloud it with cream or sugar so we can pick up the nuances.” A sample of each batch is also sent to their brew consultant in Seattle for a third opinion on whether any adjustments in the roasting temperature could improve the brew. The men grind and bag each order right after they receive it to keep the coffee as fresh as possible. Thomas Street’s coffee is a success thus far. Local restaurants such as Park Heights and Café 212 offer it on their menus, and area businesses like Mac’s Tires are regulars. The pair was so busy they couldn’t leave their booth at the Community Development Foundation’s Taste of Tupelo event in November. In addition to their Tupelo business, Sanders and Benson fill orders around the world, thanks to the reach of AFA’s radio station. “We have 3,000 pounds of our Ethiopian roast packed up and ready to go at the door right now because of the annual fundraiser they did last week,” Sanders said. “That’s great because we reach more people and back a mission that touches so many. That might not mean as much if the product weren’t just as good.” To learn more about Thomas Street Coffee Co., visit thomasstreetcoffee.com.
Merry Christmas 2214 West Jackson Street Tupelo, MS 38801 662.842.1118 dilworthsmallanimalhospital.com
214 W. Market St. Booneville, MS 662-416-1534 Wed-Fri 10-5 and Sat 10-2
807 Suite A Varsity Dr.•Tupelo, MS Located inside Thrifty Sisters 662-350-3845
December 2014 / January 2015 | INVITATION TUPELO
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TUPELO SPIRIT Donna Pritchard
Donna Pritchard began her career at North Mississippi Medical Center as a neurosurgery staff nurse in 1991. Now she serves as the hospital’s interim administrator and chief nursing executive.
Q: What is it like being interim director? A: I have to think about all employees, physicians and services when I make decisions. I don’t think I could do it without my background. I can relate to those people because I’ve held several roles in this organization, and they know I know what they’re talking about.
Q: Is this the job you always wanted? A: When I started my master’s degree in administration, I really thought I would be a nurse practitioner in a clinic seeing patients the rest of my life. Even when I went to Birmingham, Ala., for my BSN [Bachelor of Science in Nursing], I still believed that.
Q: Do you miss nursing? A: I worked the E.R. until 16 months ago. You have to be prepared for anything there, and that’s helped me in this role. I still work at outpatient infusion every other weekend, so I don’t have to miss that patient contact.
Q: You love to travel. Why? A: Just a long weekend trip can help keep stress at bay. We recently went to Orange Beach, Ala., and did a bike ride for MS [multiple sclerosis] that was 75 miles each day. I was ready for work when we got back.
Q: Are all of your trips that physical? A: Not all of them. I love to relax in the Caribbean. I did hike to Mount Everest base camp two years ago. I had to train for a whole year for that one. It showed me that if you set your sights on something and work hard, you can do it. interviewed by Melanie Crownover photographed by Joe Worthem
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INVITATION TUPELO | December 2014 / January 2015